Infantile tibia vara

J Pediatr Orthop. 1987 Nov-Dec;7(6):639-46.

Abstract

We studied the applicability of Langenskiöld's classification to a predominantly nonwhite population with infantile tibia vara. Age at presentation was younger than that in previously published studies. Forty-seven tibiae averaging 6 years 7 months of follow-up had 66% good results. Poor results increased in proportion to stage at presentation. Brace treatment for early lesions was only 50% effective. Single tibial osteotomy before 4 years of age gave good results in 85% of tibiae, and multiple osteotomies gave good results between 4 and 8 years of age. One-half of tibiae treated with osteotomy developed recurrent varus. This review documents earlier stages at presentation, a more malignant course, and poorer results than Langenskiöld's series would suggest. We question the accuracy of Langenskiöld's estimate of prognosis when applied to this patient group.

MeSH terms

  • Black People
  • Braces
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Osteochondritis / classification
  • Osteochondritis / diagnostic imaging
  • Osteochondritis / surgery*
  • Osteotomy
  • Radiography
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Tibia* / diagnostic imaging
  • Tibia* / surgery